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Wanting to start a dry bar
As we move into our first house, we'd like to build up a small dry bar (just using a cart or something similar) and I had a couple questions.
What are the absolute musts for one of these? We were thinking whiskey, rum, tequila and vodka (neither one of us, nor our friends drinks gin, so we were going to omit it). Plus some things to mix with like OJ, club soda, tonic water, etc, as well as some garnishes (olives, cherries and what not).
Also, we're undecided on where to put it. We have a nice, finished basement which is where most of the time we'll hang out with guests. However, we'd need to trek upstairs for glasses and ice and also have to pour the drinks over carpet.
I'd ideally like to have it in the dining room on a hardwood floor that is attached to the kitchen, but it will make our dining room really crowded as it is not very big. Which option would you prefer?
Re: Wanting to start a dry bar
I'd go for the basement. It gets people out of your way when you are trying to do things in the kitchen. I've seen some really cool bars that will also store glasses. I'm not sure how to explain, but I'm thinking you could put some sort of box with tiles or wood or even laminate wood under the bar for pouring. Invest in a nice ice bucket and you should be fine.
I think what you've listed would be good to stock the bar and you may find things you'll want to add later. Unless you are having a big bash, get the mini cans and bottles of juice and tonic/seltzer. You'll have less waste and can offer a bit more selection.
To me, a bar is something you build over time...so start with basics and you'll slowly add on
I would have Bacardi Silver Rum, and Captain Morgan Spiced Rum
Whiskey: Jack Daniels, Crown Royal, or Makers Mark
Vodka:Any one would be fine, maybe a flavored one like Espresso or Sweet tea
Tequila is not a must have for me. I would have some cordials like Kahlua and Peach Schnapps and Gran Marnier. Also Triple Sec is in a lot of stuff you mix.
For mixers we have club soda, tonic water, cokes, ginger ale, grenadine, oj and pineapple juice but you don't need much of this.
I also reccommend buying a big thing of salted nuts and/or wasabi peas. We always put out martini or wine glasses full of these and constantly have to refill it (I mean we serve other food, a full buffet, but people still love to munch on this stuff)